Balance by Discipline: How I Stay Grounded in Chaos

Finding Structure in the Storm

Balancing school, launching Crossed, and working side gigs like broadcast camera work might sound overwhelming and it is, at times. But I’ve learned that when things get hectic, structure isn’t a burden. It’s a safety net. A roadmap. A way to move forward without burning out.

Back in junior year, there was a stretch where I had a midterm due Monday, a weekend of filming sports events, and edits due for Crossed’s next round of social posts. Instead of spiraling, I mapped out each task by time block, scheduled meals and sleep, and made non-negotiable windows for recovery. It wasn’t easy, but that structure let me breathe and deliver across the board without dropping the ball.

Habits That Hold Me Down (In the Best Way)

Mornings start early, usually with some breathwork or silence, even five minutes helps. I try to get outside first thing, move my body, hydrate, and eat something clean (bananas, oats, protein, nothing heavy or processed). I’ve learned that what I put in my body early sets the tone for how my brain and energy function all day.

Nights wind down without noise. I log out, stretch, and prep for the next day. If I’m really on my game, I’ll journal for a minute or two, even just three bullet points of what I did well and what I need to adjust. That nightly check-in gives me clarity and a sense of control.

Saying “No” = Saying Yes to Myself

Discipline often looks like sacrifice. Skipping out on a night out. Passing on distractions. But I’ve reframed that.

Saying “no” to the wrong thing is how I protect the right things. It’s not about being boring , it’s about being intentional. I’m building something I believe in. I want to be present for the people and goals that matter. That means turning down what doesn’t serve that.

Wellness Isn’t a Reward, It’s a Requirement

To perform at a high level, I have to take care of myself like an athlete. That means prioritizing nutrition, rest, hydration, and sunlight. I limit processed food, aim for 7.5 hours of sleep a night, and use movement as a reset button, even if it’s a 15-minute walk outside between meetings.

It’s not glamorous. It’s not always convenient. But it’s how I maintain momentum when the pressure’s on.

Discipline When It Really Mattered

One moment that stands out: a week where we were prepping for a Crossed shoot, I had a final exam, and I was dealing with personal stress. I wanted to drop everything, to just shut down. But I didn’t. I stuck to my routine, stayed grounded in the basics: eat, move, sleep, check my boxes one at a time.

By the end of the week, everything was delivered. The shoot was a success. I passed the exam. And I felt stronger for it — not because it was perfect, but because I stayed consistent when it would’ve been easy to quit.

Why It All Comes Back to Balance by Discipline

“Balanced by Discipline” isn’t just a quote, it’s how I build a life that feels good, runs smoothly, and keeps me leveling up. It’s how I show up consistently for my goals and for myself.

It’s a mindset that reminds me: I don’t need to hustle until I crash. I need to show up, stay steady, and trust that the balance I create through discipline will take me exactly where I’m meant to go.